Did you work at the Ronson Lighter Factory in Newport? We’d love to see you at Ronson’s Reunited – a special open day on Saturday 16th May, from 1pm to 4pm, at Independent Arts (Where Monsoon used to be – opposite Waterstones) on Newport High Street.
Reconnect with people
It’s a chance to drop in, have a cup of tea, and reconnect with people you may not have seen in decades. Bring your old photos, your mementos, and your memories – we’ll be there to listen, and to begin recording the history of one of the Isle of Wight’s most remarkable workplaces.
Remembering
Pat Kennedy, who worked on the valve-to-shell line at Ronson and has spent years keeping the community connected, knows better than anyone how much those memories mean.
“I left school at 16, had the weekend off, and then went straight into a 40-hour week job at Ronson. Occasionally a lighter would catch fire, and you had to chuck it into the sand bucket beside you – and the line just kept going. You just had to keep up.”
Vibrant social life
At its peak, Ronson employed around 400 people – the majority of them women, for many of whom the factory was a first job and a path to financial independence. Beyond the production targets, it had a vibrant social life: its own cricket team, spectacular carnival floats, and fancy dress parties that people still talk about. It was even the place where many met their future partners.
Those stories deserve to be preserved. That’s what Flame Keepers is here for.
Come along
There’s no need to book – just turn up. All former Ronson employees and their families are welcome.
📅 Saturday 16th May 2026
🕐 1pm – 4pm (drop in any time)
📍 Independent Arts, 48 High Street, Newport, PO30 1EE
☕ Refreshments provided All former Ronson employees and their families are welcome.
Can’t make it on the day? You can still share your memories – get in touch.
Please share with friends and families
Know someone who worked at Ronson’s? Please share this page with them – it only takes a moment, and it could mean everything.